EAAs / BCAAs
Evidence: ★★★☆☆ · Status: OTC Supplement
In plain English
BCAAs ring the doorbell for muscle-building but bring no building materials; full EAAs bring both. If you eat enough protein, you likely need neither.
How it works
Essential amino acids supply all substrate for MPS; leucine triggers mTOR. BCAAs (leu/iso/val) alone trigger the signal but lack the other bricks, so they underperform complete EAAs.
Molecular target & official sources
Leucine (PubChem CID 6106) · Examine: BCAAs
Protocol
6–12 g EAAs if training fasted or protein is low.
Bottom line
Redundant on an adequate-protein diet.
Helps with: Build Muscle & Strength
Stacks with
Shares a pathway — often paired with: Whey / Casein Protein, Rapamycin (Sirolimus), Insulin (anabolic misuse), Ketamine / Esketamine (Spravato).
Availability & where to buy
Available over the counter. Widely available OTC — e.g. iHerb (ships worldwide); in Singapore also Guardian, Watsons, GNC, Shopee / Lazada. Look for a third-party-tested / GMP mark and check the dose per serving.
How it works: the mTOR pathway →
Used in these protocols
Common questions
Does EAAs / BCAAs actually work?
Human-evidence rating: 3 of 5. Redundant on an adequate-protein diet.
How do you take EAAs / BCAAs?
6–12 g EAAs if training fasted or protein is low.
Is EAAs / BCAAs legal or approved?
Regulatory status: OTC Supplement.